The South Carolina Stingrays locked in one of their top offensive weapons for another year, re-signing forward Charlie Combs for the 2025–26 ECHL season. After lighting up the scoresheet in his first season back in North America, Combs will continue to bring energy, leadership, and a scoring punch to Charleston.
Combs Delivered in Year One
Combs didn’t waste time making an impression. The 29-year-old forward posted 26 goals and 24 assists for 50 points across 64 regular-season games in 2024–25. He ranked second in goals on the Brabham Cup–winning Stingrays squad and finished third in plus-minus with a +29 rating. His production didn’t drop in the playoffs either—he buried the overtime game-winner in Game Five of the South Division Semifinals against Orlando (Stingrays Hockey, 2025).
Looking back on last season, Combs couldn’t have been clearer about his excitement.
“I’m really excited for the opportunity to come back to Charleston for this upcoming season,” Combs said in the team’s release. “I loved everything about my experience last year and can’t wait to build off of our success. Our fans make it such an electric environment every night that it’s easy to compete for them night in and night out” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
A Leader On and Off the Ice
Head Coach David Warsofsky emphasized just how important Combs has become to the team’s identity.
“Charlie’s a huge part of our team—he does a little bit of everything,” Warsofsky shared. “Whether it’s scoring a big goal or throwing a big hit to shift the momentum, he finds a way to impact the game. He’s a leader in the room, and we’re thrilled to have him back in Charleston” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
That leadership was no surprise to fans who watched him set the tone game after game, whether creating offense, grinding along the boards, or taking the ice in key moments.
Experience Built Overseas and Stateside
Before arriving in South Carolina, Combs sharpened his game overseas. In two seasons in the UK’s EIHL, he piled up 96 points (46G, 50A) in 84 games with the Dundee Stars and Glasgow Clan. He also suited up for SønderjyskE in Denmark’s top league, where he continued to produce and led his team in playoff points in 2022–23.
Combs also brings NCAA experience, having played for Bemidji State and Michigan State. He made his ECHL debut with Wichita Thunder in 2021 before heading to Europe.
What Comes Next
With Combs re-signed, South Carolina retains a proven scorer who doesn’t shy away from the physical side of the game. Expect to see him on the top line, driving possession and creating chances, especially in high-leverage situations. He’s also a safe bet for special teams deployment and remains a fan favorite at North Charleston Coliseum.
When the Puck Drops
The Stingrays open the 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 18, hosting the Norfolk Admirals. Puck drops at 6:05 PM EDT at the North Charleston Coliseum.
Source: South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, August 5). Combs Signs for Year Two with the Stingrays.
Stingrays Hockey. (2025, April 28). Stingrays skate past Solar Bears in Game 5 OT win to take 3-2 series lead. South Carolina Stingrays.
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